Speak Now

I looked over myself in the mirror once more before going to the church. I was never one to crash a party, let alone a wedding, but then again he shouldn't be marrying her. I was just trying to protect him. All right, I'll admit I was doing this because I was in love with him.

When I got to the church I slipped in unseen because the precious bride-to-be was yelling at one of her bridesmaids about something. The church was packed, which made sense because James had a huge family. I saw James standing at the altar and he looked even more handsome than ever. Seeing him standing up there made me unbelievably sad because I wasn't invited. Not because of James, he fought to have me here. She, on the other hand, hates me because I'm his best friend.

The organ started playing the wedding march and I felt my insides sink. I saw Kendall, Logan, and Carlos walk down the aisle with their partners. They all saw me as well and each of them winked at me, knowing anything else would draw too much attention to me. Lara was walking down the aisle with her dad and I almost got up and left because I didn't want to see this, but I had to stay because I needed to do this.

"Ladies and gentleman, we are gathered here today to join together James and Lara in Holy Matrimony," the priest said.

This was actually happening, I couldn't believe it. I knew I only had a limited amount of time to think of what I was going to sat and I was panicking. Finally, not long after I had everything all sorted out in my head, it was time to open my mouth.

"Speak now or forever hold your peace," the priest said and I stood up.

The look on his face was that of complete shock and the congregation turned around to look at me. Kendall, Logan, and Carlos smiled at me and I stepped into the aisle. James looked shocked but was smiling and Lara looked horrified.

"James, please, hear me out," I said, "don't do this. She's not right for you. I mean look at today. She wouldn't let you invite your best friend to your wedding. I don't want to sound whiney because you know that I am not the kind of girl who should be rudely barging in on a white vale occasion but you know you are not the kind of boy who should be marrying the wrong girl. Don't do this. I love you. Meet me out back if you decide to listen to me."

With that I turned around and walked out of the church. I walked behind the church and sat down on a bench that was under a cherry blossom tree. I was taking in the summer air as I sat and waited for what I was sure wouldn't happen. I wasn't facing the church because I was afraid to see if he actually walked out. It felt like it had been hours when I felt the bench shift next to me. I looked over and there he was. His tie was off and so was his jacket. He looked more like a groomsman than the actual groom. I smiled at him and he smiled back.

"I love you too, Naomi," he said, "I'm glad you showed up and talked some sense into me."

"You're welcome," I said with a laugh.

He leaned over and kissed me. It was the last thing I expected, but I was happy.

"I really do love you," he said.

"I love you too," I replied.